A beautifully illustrated overview of the history of languages around the world, filled with maps, sidebars, and unusual facts that will satisfy curious kids

Where did the word "banana" originate? What is the world's most secret language? Which word is universally understood?

This book answers all these questions and more, taking the reader on a journey across the globe to explore the complexity, beauty, and variety of languages. It includes fun facts and language trivia, beautifully illustrated maps to pore, intricate language family trees that show how different languages have grown and connected over time, and eye-catching infographics.

Details:

• Hardcover
• By Rachel Lancashire
• Illustrator Jenny Zemanek
• Publication Date: July 22, 2025
• Imprint: Abrams Books for Young Readers
• Trim Size: 9.3" x 11"
• Page Count: 96
• Illustrations: Full-color illustrations throughout

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To make a return, please email orders@pacifieronline.com to request return authorization. In your message, please include your name, order number and the item(s) you wish to return. We will get back to you within 2 business days to provide return authorization on applicable orders and shipping instructions.

Returns made within 30 days of order delivery receive a full refund to the original form of payment. If the product was gifted, may be returned for gift card/store credit.

We do not cover the shipping cost of returns, any shipping fees will be deducted from your refund.The shipping fee depends on the size and weight of your return order. Please call us at 612.767.8501 if you have any questions.Merchandise must be in new, unused condition and packaging intact and with original seals.Strollers, carseats and furniture may only be exchanged/returned if packaging remains sealed. 

Return and exchange timeframe restrictions apply to strollers, carseats, and furniture.

Clearance, special order items, and opened gear/furniture items are final sale and not returnable or exchangeable.

We ship USPS First Class or Ground or UPS Ground, depending on weight. Signatures are required for orders over $200 and tracking is provided. We recommend that you provide a shipping address that has a secure delivery space. Pacifier cannot be responsible for theft of packages that have been confirmed as delivered via provided tracking services.

Global Word Quest — travel through language maps, trivia, and infographics to uncover origin stories of words like “banana” and discover languages hidden in whispers—from secret codes to universal greetings.

Language Family Trees Made Simple — visual diagrams show how languages connect, split, and evolve—perfect for young explorers curious about how words shape across borders.

Curiosity in Every Corner — clever sidebars, language fun facts, and bold, illustrated maps spark kids’ wonder.